Two brothers behind a metal detecting group hope their fundraising rally over 100 acres of land can bring a smile to children this Christmas. 

Jay and Gary Dorman launched an annual fundraiser last year having started the Fen Diggers group four years ago. 

“One reason why we started the rally was that me and Gary had one parent growing up and I know what it feels like to wake up to not a lot,” said Jay. 

“My mum did her best and I don’t want other children to feel what we did.” 

The fundraising rally, which allows metal detectorists to search for buried treasure on a piece of land, raised over £2,000 with proceeds going towards buying children’s Christmas presents. 

These items, such as toys, were then distributed to organisations including the Salvation Army, which is where most donations are gathered. 

Ely Standard: Some of the toys donated last year as part of Jay and Gary Dorman's Christmas appeal through the Fen Diggers metal detector group. Some of the toys donated last year as part of Jay and Gary Dorman's Christmas appeal through the Fen Diggers metal detector group. (Image: Jay Dorman)

Jay and Gary have seen ticket sales for this year’s event, taking place on 100 acres of land in March, rise by three-fold, with only a handful left. 

“We’ve sold 140 tickets which is three times last year’s sales; we had 100 tickets for sale and sold them within three days,” said Jay. 

“Metal detecting was an ‘anorak’ hobby but in the last 10 to 15 years, it has taken off, and we want to get the younger generation off computers and out into the fresh air. 

“We also have metal detectors people can borrow for the day.” 

As well as towards children’s presents and the landowner, ticket sales will be used for a token hunt where if any of five tokens are found, metal detectorists win a prize. 

The group has progressed since Jay’s metal detecting idea on land owned by a friend raised around £2,000 for his friend’s daughter to travel to Ecuador. 

Jay hopes that the rally, to take place on November 26 between 9am-4pm, raises around £4,000. 

“It’s about trying to raise as much money for the children as we can,” he added. 

“The cost of living has gone up and we know last year, many children went without a Christmas present. 

“If we can make a difference in this area, we have done our part.” 

Tickets for adults cost £25 and under 16s go free; for more details, contact Jay on 07359073502.